Commercial Refrigeration Buying Guide Part 2

So you're ready to invest in new commercial kitchen equipment but you're not sure where to begin. Browsing the diverse selection of commercial refrigeration available can be confusing. What difference does the compressor location make? Should you get a bottom-mounted or top-mounted cooler? Here's your guide to getting the best commercial refrigeration for your kitchen.

Compressor Locations of Walk-Ins and Reach-Ins

Walk-in refrigerators typically come with wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted, or remote compressors that can be set up far from the refrigerator to reduce heat and noise. The type of compressor location you want for a walk-in unit depends mostly on your available space. Reach-in units have bottom-mounted or top-mounted compressors. Compressor location for reach-in units is based on the air temperature of your space.

Bottom-Mounted

Units with bottom-mounted compressors are ideal for hot areas and in cooking line applications. The benefits include:

Located near the floor and pulls in cooler air.

No ladders required for cleaning or servicing the compressor.

The core components of the unit are far from steam that can cause the compressor to gum up.

No stooping down to access the contents stored at the bottom of the cooler.

The main setback to this type of compressor is that it can easily get clogged with dirt, dust, or grease from the kitchen floor.

Top-Mounted

Units with a top-mounted compressor are best for cool and dry areas. Advantages include:

No debris or dust on the floor will clog the coils.

Compressor, evaporator, and condenser are all at the top, which makes for accessible service and extra storage space.

Efficient operation due to heat not rising into the cooler.

Maximizes inside space and top shelves that are easier to reach.

The main drawback is that the compressor is more difficult to access for maintenance and cleaning. A ladder or other type of support is required.

Making Your Decision

As with choosing a walk-in or reach-in unit, choosing a compressor location is based off of a variety of factors. Whether your kitchen is hot or cool will influence your decision. If you need cool storage for a cooking line or front of house area will also affect your choice. Each commercial kitchen is unique and choosing the right refrigeration equipment matters.

Now that you know about the benefits and limitations of both types of compressor location, you can make an informed decision. Buying and working with your commercial equipment doesn't have to be confusing. If you need assistance or maintenance, request service here.

Look for part 3 of our blog where we help you understand the different doors and other features for commercial Refrigerators and coolers.

Wow, I would have never expected that so much had to be taken into consideration when choosing a commercial refrigerator. I am especially impressed to learn that the location of the compressor mattered so much. Although, it does make sense that you'd want it out of the way, but still accessible in case it needed repairs.